How does oil get here?

https://photos.app.goo.gl/RdmQ7hTsZAg6wKbZ2

[img]https://photos.app.goo.gl/RdmQ7hTsZAg6wKbZ2[/img]

That is probably gas. Slow leak, most evaporates, and that is what is left. Check screws, fittings on carb. Good luck.

Check the throttle shaft for leaks.

If it's oil, it's likely coming up through the threads in the intake bolt.

Bet it smells like gas.

This. Seen it many times. Put some liquid thread sealant on intake bolts.

Very common issue. The oil seeps up through the intake bolt holes. I put some silicon on the threads.

Teflon paste type sealer works the best on intake bolts.
Doug

Looks like gasoline to me, and I see a trail leading down to it.

If the intake bolts do not have the sealer, the oil can wick up the threads to the intake.

I had same thing and it was accelerator pump gasket on Holley. Looks just like oil after most of the gas evaporates.

Been twisting wrenches for over 50 years, mostly on Mopars. this is typically oil following the intake bolt threads up and pooling in the intake. A little sealer on the intake bolts is all you need.

This, from my experience, Mopar and others. Always fixed by finding the fuel source. I've never used sealant on intake bolts.

NEVER !!! You pull out those bolts and you've got bits of that sh!t falling down into the engine.

Stat-O-Seals to the rescue.

Had the same problem on my 340. Tightened and sealed all the manifold bolts and it was still happening. Closer inspection I found the Fuel bowl gasket leaking on the holly carb. Rebuilt the carb and problem solved.

ya, I think you guys are right about the gas. I see little stains all over the intake now. The carb had been gone through not that long ago but maybe our Chicago gas has killed it again. I hadn't put my fingers in the goo until yesterday, it's somewhat sticky, though it still does a pretty good job mimicking oil!